The event showcasing athletes from 756 First Nations across the continent, competition in 16 sports and a cultural extravaganza will add another layer of interaction between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians at a time of reconciliation, said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek.
”The opportunity to welcome Indigenous athletes, coaches, families and fans to Calgary for these games is a tremendous honour,” said Gondek. “We are committed to an inclusive, week-long celebration of sport and culture which will have a lasting impact on Indigenous athletes and Calgarians.”
Indigenous Sport Council Alberta (ISCA), which selected Calgary to be the Alberta nominee late last year, cited strong support from the City of Calgary and surrounding Nations as a key factor in Calgary’s success.
Tsuut’ina Nation Chief Roy Whitney said hosting First Nations compatriots from across North America is a special privilege and one his visitors will cherish.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be a partner . . . we look forward to hosting Indigenous athletes and families on our beautiful lands at the foothills of the Rockies,” Whitney said in a statement. “We are confident that visitors will have an unforgettable experience, with elite competition and cultural activities throughout the Games.”
Audrey Poitras, president of the Métis Nation of Alberta, says the organization is pleased to see Calgary will host the event.
“It will be a remarkable time for the province, the City of Calgary and our Indigenous Nations to come together to compete, to showcase what we have to offer and what we can do,” she said.
The seven-day Games, with a price tag between $15 million and $20 million, will generate about $40 million in economic return for the Calgary area, said Tourism Calgary.
Calgary will also host the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in February 2024, which will bring more than 4,000 athletes, coaches and mission staff to the city.
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